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Higher Learning Commission invites third party comments in accreditation process

Clarksville, Ark. --- University of the Ozarks and the Higher Learning Commission are seeking comments from the public about the university in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. U of O will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit Oct. 22-24 by a team representing the Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Ozarks has been accredited by the Commission from 1931-34, 1950-62, and since 1965. The university's accreditation is at the bachelor's degree level.

The Higher Learning Commission is one of six accrediting agencies in the United States that provides institutional accreditation on a regional basis. Institutional accreditation evaluates an entire institution and accredits it as a whole. Accreditation is voluntary. The Commission, which accredits approximately 1,100 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region, is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Over the past two years Ozarks has been engaged in a process of self-study and addressing the Commission's requirements and criteria for accreditation. The evaluation team will visit the institution to gather evidence that the self-study is thorough and accurate. The team will recommend to the Commission a continuing status for the university. Following a review process, the Commission itself will take the final action.

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the university to:

Public Comment on University of the Ozarks
The Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, IL 60604-1411

The public may also submit comments on the Commission's web site at www.ncahlc.org

Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. All comments must be written and signed, and should be received by the HLC by Sept. 22, 2012.

Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request the separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office. The Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comments.